Peanut butter bombs: An enrichment device for captive chimpanzees (1999)

Borman, R., Gratton-Fabbri, L., Fritz, J.

Abstract

To work the peanut butter and treats from the [destructible plastic] bottles, chimpanzees often fashioned and used tools. ... After the chimpanzees had removed all of the enrichment inside [food treats in peanut 'coated' bottle], the destructible plastic bottles also became a toy for the chimpanzees, and in some cases was even incorporated as part of their evening nesting material. We have used this device for the past 12 months with great success. It continues to keep all chimpanzees intently occupied for between two and three hours whenever offered. ... To prevent frustration and fighting over the bottles, care should be taken to ensure that each animal in a group receives one at the onset.